Over-productivity

Do you have times when you get lots done? When you work longer hours and take on multiple tasks and responsibilities? If so, this page can help you understand if over-productivity could be a sign of hypomania – and the steps you can take.

Is over-productivity a common symptom of hypomania?

Yes. Increased energy and goal-directed activity are common symptoms of high mood in bipolar. During these periods, you may have increased self-esteem, enthusiasm, confidence and motivation. 

You may be more likely to set goals, take on lots of projects, hobbies and responsibilities, or start a new business. And you may find it difficult to switch off or sit down. 

When is a period of over-productivity more likely to happen? 

For people living with bipolar, a period of high productivity can be triggered by lots of different factors, including:  

• stress – caused by things like exams, bereavement, trauma or divorce 
• change – caused by things like a new relationship or job, or a house move 
• jetlag – if you fly across time zones 
• substances – an excess of alcohol or caffeine, or illegal drug use 
• medication – if you don’t take it regularly, or a prescription change

What does over-productivity during hypomania feel like? 

The signs and symptoms of bipolar are varied and unique to each individual. Here, one man living with bipolar shares his experiences of hypomania:

What causes over-productivity during hypomania?

Researchers don’t know exactly what causes increased energy and over-productivity during hypomania.  

But it’s thought that changes in the brain’s chemical messengers, including dopamine, noradrenaline and serotonin, may contribute to increased activity in the brain’s reward and motivation systems.  

This can lead to higher energy levels, increased goal-directed behaviour and a strong drive to stay active.

Is over-productivity always a symptom of high mood in bipolar?

Over-productivity is not always a sign of high mood. Most people go through times when they are more motivated, enthusiastic and productive. 

However, unlike healthy periods of motivation, over-productivity linked to hypomania can be intense and difficult to manage where you find it hard to rest or switch off. 

How do I know if over-productivity is a symptom of hypomania? 

Over-productivity is more likely to be a symptom of hypomania if:  

• you’re full of creativity and new ideas 
• you start lots of projects at the same time but don’t finish them 
• you have at least two other symptoms of hypomania at the same time 
• you have been over-productive for at least four days
• you’ve had periods of over-productivity before 

What happens if I ignore a period of over-productivity? 

Ticking things off your to-do list at work or at home – or starting a new hobby - can feel good at first, especially if colleagues or family members are praising you.  

However, you may find that high levels of confidence can lead to poor or risky decision-making. Taking on too many commitments can cause the quality of your work to drop. And juggling multiple projects may increase your anxiety levels and lead to burnout. 

If your over-productivity is a symptom of bipolar, ignoring a period of hypomania can: 

• disrupt your work, college or university life 
• impact your relationships with family, friends and colleagues  
• increase your risk of impulsive decision-making, such as reckless driving or unsafe sexual behaviour 
• damage your long-term financial security due to overspending and risky investments 
• lead to a manic episode, which usually needs treatment in hospital

What to do next 

1. Use these five proven stress-busters to help you relax
2. Explore our workplace resources to help you manage bipolar at work 
3. Stay well at university with these top tips 
4. Track your mood with our free range of resources
5. Get support from our friendly Peer Support team
6. Book an appointment with your GP or psychiatrist as soon as you can